MicroRNA 15a (miR-15a)

MicroRNA 15a is a short, endogenous, non-coding RNA that negatively regulates gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, functioning mainly as a tumor suppressor[2][4][7]. It targets key oncogenes (such as BCL2, MCL1, CCND1, and WNT3A), supporting apoptosis and inhibiting cell proliferation and tumorigenesis[2][4][7]. miR-15a, often co-expressed with miR-16, forms a highly conserved cluster located in the human Dleu2 gene on chromosome 13 (13q14)[1][6]. Dysregulation or loss of miR-15a is implicated in various cancers, notably chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and is involved in regulating fibrosis in several organs[1][6]. Its complex regulatory network affects cell cycle progression, apoptosis, extracellular matrix remodeling, and angiogenesis, making it a notable biomarker and therapeutic target in oncology and fibrotic disease research[1][2][4][6][7].

Other names

hsa-mir-15aMIR15AmiRNA15Amir-15aMIRN15AmiR-15a-5p

miRNA mimics: restore miR-15a activity to exert tumor suppressive effects by repressing oncogene expression (e.g., BCL2)\n- anti-miR-15a molecules (antagomirs): inhibit miR-15a to rescue expression of its target genes, potentially exacerbating oncogenic processes\n- Both approaches act through modulation of post-transcriptional silencing of critical genes, influencing apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and proliferation